Bank of America's gift helps build business facility

Raquel Gonzalez, Bank of America

Market President, Silicon Valley Program

Raquel Gonzalez knows that education is even more important during tough economic times. That's why she, as market president of Bank of America's Silicon Valley program, ensures that gifts from the bank go where they'll make the greatest impact.

"Santa Clara serves a very diverse group of students," says Gonzalez. "We want to ensure that those students that might not have access to education will actually have access in this climate, and that they'll be part of the community where we do business."

Bank of America's $1 million gift to Santa Clara University helped make the new building at the Leavey School of Business possible.

"Santa Clara is an anchor institution in the community," says Gonzalez. "The University is helping to build a stronger economic culture. We want to be part of that engine for Silicon Valley."

The 86,000 square-foot, $49 million buildingis two and a half times the size of the former business school hub, has 12 classrooms, six executive-style conference rooms, and 16 team project rooms. All are wirelessly connected and most are high-definition, teleconferencing-ready.

Reflecting Santa Clara University's commitment to green and sustainable building, Lucas Hall was built using nationalLeadership in Energy and Environmental Designguidelines to reduce energy consumption. It also features dozens of energy-efficiency measures, including dual-switched and motion-sensitive lights; energy-optimized heating and air conditioning; and recycled and recyclable chairs.